Alarm/Suppression Designer

Austin Fire Systems; La Porte (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Austin Fire Systems in Texas is seeking a Fire Protection Design Engineer with hands-on experience designing industrial fire alarm and suppression systems. You'll use AutoCAD-based CAD tools and read complex construction documents to ensure code-compliant layouts.

The role requires 2+ years of design experience, familiarity with NFPA codes, and ability to coordinate with Sales, Estimation, Design and Operations, as well as AHJs and contractors to drive projects to completion.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of fire protection design experience in an industrial context.
• High School diploma or GED required.
• NICET Level II–IV certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design/layout industrial fire alarm and suppression systems using AutoCAD-based CAD packages.
• Read and interpret construction drawings, specs, and contracts.
• Apply NFPA standards to designs based on building type and hazard.
• Coordinate with Sales, Estimation, Design Manager, and Operations to review scope.
• Coordinate projects to meet delivery dates.
• Communicate with AHJs, contractors, and other trades.
• Generate listing of required materials.
• Coordinate with install team for permitting and inspections.
• Attend weekly predesign and review meetings.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Fire protection design

Reading/construction docs

NFPA standards interpretation

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

High School diploma or GED

NICET Level II-IV certification

Tools

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Job description

Founded in 1999, Austin Fire Systems is a leading provider of fire protection, life safety, and hazard management solutions for commercial and industrial facilities across the region. The team combines engineering expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to safety to deliver turnkey solutions that protect people, property, and businesses every day. Employees have the opportunity to work alongside highly trained industry professionals in a collaborative, growth-oriented environment where innovation, training, and career development are strongly valued.

Job Responsibilities:

• Design and layout industrial fire alarm and suppression systems using specialized CAD software packages that are based on the AutoCAD platform.
• Read and interpret construction documents, including drawings, specifications, and contracts.
• Interpret and apply applicable NFPA standards to the design and/or layout of the alarm/suppression systems based on the building type, construction type, hazard classification and architectural features.
• Work closely with the Sales, Estimation department, Design Manager, and Operations Manager to review the scope and requirements of each project.
• Coordinate projects to meet delivery dates.
• Communicate with AHJs, contractors, and other trades.
• Generate listing of required materials.
• Coordinate with install team members for permitting and inspection requirements.
• Actively participate in weekly predesign and review meetings.
• Other duties as assigned

Work Experience/Knowledge:

• Minimum Experience: 2+ years Fire Protection Design experience
• NICET Level II - IV certification is preferred.
• High School diploma or GED is required
• Must have experience with designing fire alarm and suppression systems in the industrial market

Skills and Competencies:

• Proficient in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office is required.
• Proficient in interpreting and applying applicable NFPA standards, and in reading and interpreting construction documents.
• Must obtain and retain any licenses that are required by national, state/province, and local codes.
• Experience with a variety of system types and manufacturers (Notifier, Ansul, Kidde, Edwards, Janus, etc)
• Strong knowledge of industry codes such as IFC, NFPA, IBC, and NEC
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, electrical, and mechanical drawings
• Ability to work in a fast-paced installation and construction team environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to travel for site walks and surveys as needed